Our Summary

This study was conducted to compare the levels of pain after surgery in women who had a specific type of breast cancer surgery, called a modified radical mastectomy, with or without a type of pain management called a pectoral (PECS) block. The research took place at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, and involved 60 patients who were split into two groups: one group received the PECS block, the other did not.

The researchers found that the patients who received the PECS block experienced significantly less pain 6 and 12 hours after surgery than the group who did not receive the block. This suggests that using a PECS block could be an effective way to manage pain after this type of surgery, and could potentially improve the quality of life for patients afterwards.

FAQs

  1. What is a modified radical mastectomy and how was it used in this study?
  2. What is a pectoral (PECS) block and how did it affect patients’ pain levels following surgery?
  3. How might a PECS block improve the quality of life for patients after a modified radical mastectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about radical mastectomy is to consider discussing the option of a pectoral (PECS) block with their healthcare provider to help manage post-operative pain. This type of pain management technique could potentially reduce discomfort and improve recovery outcomes.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who are recommended radical mastectomy are those with larger or more aggressive breast tumors, those with multiple tumors in the same breast, those with tumors that involve the chest wall or skin, those with inflammatory breast cancer, and those with a high risk of cancer recurrence.

Timeline

Before the radical mastectomy:

  • Patient undergoes pre-operative assessments and consultations with their healthcare team
  • Patient may undergo imaging tests such as mammograms or biopsies
  • Patient receives anesthesia before the surgery
  • Surgery is performed to remove the breast tissue, lymph nodes, and sometimes chest muscles

After the radical mastectomy:

  • Patient wakes up in the recovery room with pain and discomfort
  • Patient may stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and recovery
  • Patient may experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in the chest and arm
  • Patient may undergo physical therapy to regain range of motion and strength
  • Patient may receive pain medications and other supportive care
  • Patient may need to adjust to changes in body image and emotional well-being
  • Patient may undergo reconstructive surgery or other treatments as needed

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a radical mastectomy and why is it recommended for my specific case?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a radical mastectomy?
  3. What are the expected outcomes and recovery time after a radical mastectomy?
  4. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before proceeding with a radical mastectomy?
  5. How will pain be managed after the surgery, and what are the options available to me?
  6. What is a pectoral (PECS) block and how can it help with pain management after a radical mastectomy?
  7. What are the potential side effects or risks associated with receiving a PECS block?
  8. How soon after the surgery can a PECS block be administered, and how long does it typically last?
  9. Will I require any additional pain management techniques or medications in addition to a PECS block?
  10. How will the use of a PECS block impact my overall recovery and quality of life following a radical mastectomy?

Reference

Authors: Noorain Z, Waqar SH, Shah SA, Huddah S, Shah SA. Journal: J Ayub Med Coll Abbottabad. 2024 Jan-Mar;36(1):25-28. doi: 10.55519/JAMC-01-12588. PMID: 39585253